Cardano Founder Slams Ripple CEO Over Support For US Crypto CLARITY Act Law

TLDR

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Hoskinson opposed Garlinghouse’s public support for the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act.
He blamed political involvement and the crypto czar role for shifting the bill’s direction.
XRP community reactions were mixed, with supporters and critics responding online.
The dispute reflects wider industry divisions over US crypto regulation policy.

Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has publicly criticized Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse over his backing of the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act. The comments added new tension between two major blockchain leaders. The dispute centers on regulation, political influence, and the future of crypto policy in the United States. While Ripple supports the bill, Hoskinson has questioned both its direction and the political process behind it.

Hoskinson Targets Garlinghouse Over Support for CLARITY Act

Hoskinson, the CEO of Input Output Global, spoke against Garlinghouse’s public support for the CLARITY Act. He said Garlinghouse framed his position as a principled stance rooted in early crypto values. Hoskinson rejected that view and argued that the bill no longer reflects its original purpose.

During recent comments, Hoskinson said Garlinghouse described his own actions as driven by long-term industry goals. Garlinghouse stated, “He’s being principled. That’s genuine passion and concern.” Hoskinson responded by questioning whether the bill still protects open networks and fair market access.

Hoskinson has maintained that the legislation changed after political involvement increased. He said the current version favors large firms and regulated entities. He warned that smaller developers and open-source projects could face new burdens.

He also argued that public endorsements from major executives shape how lawmakers view the industry. According to Hoskinson, such endorsements can narrow debate. He said this creates pressure on policymakers to follow corporate interests.

Concerns Over Political Handling of the Bill

Hoskinson has focused much of his criticism on the political handling of the CLARITY Act. He blamed the Trump administration’s appointed “Crypto Czar,” David Sacks, for shifting the bill’s direction. He said the process became less transparent after new political figures joined discussions.

He also criticized the launch of a Trump-branded meme coin. Hoskinson said this event damaged bipartisan trust around crypto legislation. He argued that lawmakers from both parties became more cautious after the token launch.

Hoskinson claimed the original draft gained early support from different political groups. He said this support weakened once partisan elements entered the debate. He warned that such moves could slow progress on broader crypto rules.

He added that policy should focus on user protection and technical clarity. He said political branding distracts from these goals. He also said lawmakers should separate regulation from campaign strategies.

XRP Community Reaction and Industry Response

Hoskinson’s comments sparked debate within the XRP community. Some XRP supporters accused him of “crashing out” and escalating tensions. Others defended his right to question industry leaders.

Several community members said Garlinghouse’s approach reflects Ripple’s regulatory strategy. They argued that Ripple seeks clearer rules for institutions. Supporters said this could attract banks and payment firms.

At the same time, Cardano supporters backed Hoskinson’s stance. They said the industry needs stronger checks on political influence. They also said developers should have a voice in policy talks.

Industry observers noted that public disputes between founders are becoming more common. They said these debates show growing pressure around U.S. crypto regulation. Many firms now face decisions on whether to support or oppose federal bills.

Broader Context Around CLARITY Act Debate

The CLARITY Act aims to define roles for the SEC and CFTC in crypto oversight. Supporters say it would reduce legal uncertainty. Critics argue that it may favor established companies.

Ripple has supported the bill as part of its regulatory engagement. The company has faced long legal battles with the SEC. Garlinghouse has said clear rules would help the market grow.

Hoskinson has taken a different view. He said the bill does not address core issues for decentralized networks. He also said open systems need flexible rules. He warned that strict frameworks could limit innovation.

The dispute reflects wider divisions inside the crypto sector. Some firms want fast regulatory clarity. Others prefer slower reforms that protect decentralization. As lawmakers debate the bill, industry leaders continue to shape public opinion through open statements.